Like some other apes such as chimpanzees and orangutans they are even capable of learning basic human sign language.The lifespan of gorillas differs and for mountain gorillas it is not easy to ascertain the fact that it ranges from 30 to 35 years in average. Although gorillas are generally quiet, they have a range of complex vocalisations which are used to communicate information in numerous contexts including teaching survival skills to young, searching for food, and during courtship.Aggressive displays, such as the beating of chests and charging are quite rare but will be used by male gorillas as a warning if surprised or threatened. Most gorillas will use a low grumbling sound to both locate each other and as sign of contentment. In Mountain gorillas, the ‘belch vocalization’ is a contact call and sign of contentment while foraging.They were observed using sticks to test the depth of muddy water and to cross swampy areas. Gorillas were seen for the first time using simple tools to perform tasks in the wild in 2005.Gorillas spend a good deal of their time on the ground rather than in the trees, and will make new nests on the ground each night.Gorillas have a gestation period of nine months like humans, but babies usually weigh less than humans at approximately 4 pounds, their development is however roughly twice as fast.When in oestrus she will be able to conceive for only three days in the month. Females will start giving birth at about 10 years old and will have offspring every 3-4 years.Western Lowland gorilla diets have a much higher proportion of fruit. Gorillas are mainly herbivorous, with the majority of their diet consisting of leaves, shoots and stems, some fruit and some small animal prey such as grubs, caterpillars, snails, termites and ants.This ‘social grooming’ is an important aspect of gorilla groups which helps to establish and reinforce social bonds. Gorillas will groom each other by combing each other with their fingers and teeth.Different groups can however occupy converging areas and co-exist peacefully. Gorilla family groups each live within relatively small areas of land.When young males reach the age of 8-11 they will usually emigrate away and either join another group or form new groups. Gorillas live in fairly stable social groups comprising of one adult male usually referred to as the silverback (because of the silver hair on his back which signals full adulthood) and multiple females with juveniles and infants.Gorillas have been observed displaying emotions such as grief and compassion for other primates, including humans.
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